Steve Madden in Step With Shoppers and Investors

NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Shares of Steve Madden (SHOO - Get Report) are up 14% so far this year because the shoe seller has become increasingly in step with shoppers, said John Heffern, portfolio manager for Chartwell Investments.

"If women and men are out there refreshing their closets in the Spring and the Fall then they are probably at some point going to look down at their shoes and Steve Madden will be there, whichever channel, whichever price point," said Heffern. "We think that's helping them in terms of the growth we see."

Far afield from the foot provider, Heffern is also bullish on shares of Private Bancorp (PVTB), which have risen 15% year to date. He said the Chicago-based lender is well managed in the hands of CEO Larry Richman and will do well once interest rates rise.

"We like the middle of the country. We like Chicago, it's a terrific banking market," said Heffern. "He's got good growth in front of him and they are squeaky clean on the asset quality side. Very strong capital base. So I am optimistic for the rest of the year."

Heffern is also positive on Hilton (HLT - Get Report), which has seen its stock drop 14% thus far in 2015, despite the fact low gas prices and a growing economy would seemingly put more travelers on the road and into the company's hotels.

"We do see strength continuing in this lodging cycle of restrained supply and improved demand and Hilton is right there to take advantage of all that," said Heffern, adding that he has actually added to his position as concerns have risen over its China exposure, a point he disputes.

Finally, Heffern is a fan of Tractor Supply (TSCO - Get Report), which has seen its shares increase 8% this year. He said an improving job market has encouraged the consumer to spend more on specialty products. "They've got great product, great operations and they are still getting the traffic coming in the door," said Heffern.